DocBauer

I really wanted a deal with the Dodgers for Rushing and the best arm I could get that was hopefully AA or higher.

He can swing a bat without pain, and I believe he can throw as well. It was reported thst running caused pain. He's quite possibly having the best season of his career, and certainly one of the healthiest. The Twins aren't winning anything this season so why not give him a few days off at this point? So much angst over something so small.

No matter how devoted a fan as I am, I am ABSOLUTELY in the "keep trying to win to create positive vibes for 2026 and let's take a look at some guys and see if they can be part of 2026" vibe. (Breath). Agree with me or disagree with me, I'm going to bullet point a few things here. And some of this is about an OP earlier concerning Ohl. So here goes: 1] I've said over and over again, keep playing Lee daily. He's talented and smart and still figuring stuff out. He has a hitting streak, slumps, and then had a couple really good games. Again, your young talent doesn't develop if you don't play them and give them opportunities to fail and rise and grow. 2] STOP with the "no starting pitcher, etc". Lopez is out. Festa is out. Ober is just coming back. They traded Paddack. Morris is out. So what are they supposed to do to have someone start a game? And this goes to.... 3] The idea that the FO is experimenting with guys pitching less but more often is blown out of proportion. They have been taking arms that honestly have little chance of being ML SP, and developing them as middle relief arms that could fill the last spot or two in the pen. Imagine a 2026 pen with Duran, Jax, Varland, Stewart, HOPEFULLY a LH option of quality, Sands, MAYBE Coulombe back again, and you have an arm maybe TWO arms who can throw 2-3 IP per week to round out the pen when someone has a bad day. OR, a Festa, SWR, Matthews having that bad day as they're still developing. You have 6-7 quality RP arms, but have a guy or a couple of guys that just aren't quite good enough to be MLSP, but could be really solid a couple days a week for 2 IP. Once in a while, they might go 3 IP. 4] I actually like Ohl a bit better than Adams for one of those spots. The only LH option is Rozek, who might get a shot before 2025 is done. But ROOKIE arms like Adams and Ohl should be dismissed after 3 or 1 appearances just isn't right at this point. The same way Jax and Sands shouldn't have been dismissed or discarded. We're talking about rookies getting their feet wet at the ML level because everyone else is injured. Imagine even better arms like Culpepper, and McLeod who might fit this role even better in the near future? What is wrong with 6 dominate, quality, 1 IP RP, with a pair of quality 2-3 IP guys at the back end of the pen. Tell me how that DOESN'T make sense? THAT'S what they are attempting to do, maximizing arms. They AREN'T treating ALL arms that way. Just the guys with decent stuff that don't figure to be MLSP in the future. 5] I still think the smart move is to trade Bader for a solid return if possible. Castro as well. And I'd whisper in Coulombe's ear "we want to re-sign you for 2026 right away for around $3-4M but we're giving you a playoff shot right now" and hope that helps for 2026. I want him back for next season to fill the EXACT role he's had this season, while making it a priority to find an even better LHRP option for the 7th-8th inning role. I don't like betting on Bader for a return in 2026 based on his career, despite having one of his best seasons ever here in 2025. The Buxton injury, unfortunately, might skew the FO perspective. It shouldn’t.

I know just enough to be dangerous, or make a fool of myself, lol. I don't know that the Twins will remake Reitz delivery, but I'm sure they will tweak it somewhat. I think his 3/4 delivery is very deceptive. But when you watch him throw there doesn't seem to be much "bend" from his upper body. That's where he appears to short arm his throws and looses velocity. I mean, he already throws in the 90's and is only just about to turn 21yo. So getting more extension on his throws should put him in the 94-95 range consistently over the next year or so. And with that length, it will "appear" to be sitting around 97. I'm not certain exact what they seen in JONES to draft him twice despite poor results. Basically, he's only had good results in a summer league in 2023...9 games...and especially in the the pre-draft summer league this year in 8 games, 7 of them in relief, when his K numbers jumped to 14 per. Obviously they see something in his length they like, and believe there's something mechanical to sort out or rebuild. Definitely an enigma at this point. On the other hand, MORING is only 6' 1", and had poor numbers his first 2yrs of college before a solid 2025. So the length doesn't seem to be there, and he's only thrown 100 innings in college, and only 17.2 in 2025. Another enigma. Were I too take a guess? They see a repeatable delivery that can max out for 1-2 IP and he can be a good pen arm if he can tweak his spotty command. Maybe Joe Ryan-ish potential in the pen for short stretches? Then comes the biggest enigma/question mark of ALL the arms selected, IMO, in STEVENS. Despite being listed as coming from Alabama, he's never thrown for them yet. He was a pretty successful and highly ranked prep recruit from Birmingham AL, but he's ONLY thrown 37.1 innings in THREE YEARS of summer league ball to this point! He was a multi sport athlete who's probably maxed out physically at 6' 1" and 215 lbs who was probably on the Twins radar based on his prep production and lingering belief of what he might do concentrating solely on baseball? Keep in mind the Twins reportedly have a good relationship with the Alabama program, going back to the drafting of Prielipp a few years ago. And while I can't find any information to back this up, for a home state, top prospect to never throw a single inning for his home state school might just mean injury factors have held him back??? All 3 of these guys signed for slot, or under slot. IMO, they are all rather extreme fliers that cost little. And it's these 3 that made me question the last 3rd of this draft, no matter how much I liked the first 2/3. In fact, I'm initially more interested in the last 2 PICKS of LHRP BECKER, and RHP HIKER who I genuinely thought would NOT sign and go back to ARIZONA to try and increase his value as a senior. In recent previous years...even though they're ALL fliers at that point...I thought they had more interesting selections in those 14-16 selections. But you just never know what scouts see that we have NO CLUE about. But TODAY, I remain a bit confused about these 3 choices. I know this probably offers more questions than answers, but it's what I see.

I like the idea of Prielipp getting a couple months at AAA to close out the year. The command is still an issue, and he's probably not going to go over 70 pitches in any game this season. So with his overall peripherals solid, let him get those 70 pitches per game at AAA. Hidalgo has been quite inconsistent. But don't we rather expect that coming off a missed season? But he's certainly shown enough to this point to deserve that AA promotion. It helps set him up for 2026, just like Prielipp to AAA. Hidalgo has shown nice K ability previously and sitting just over 11K per 9 this season. If his overall command/control gets reigned in, he stays in the rotation probably. If not, he's quite likely one of the next arms the Twins convert to a solid pen option. Just don't know enough about Ross to comment accurately. He got better each year in college and if you keep the hits and BB numbers down, a K per 9 between 8-9 can work. But a 23yo in Low A ball should be doing that, even in his rookie season. I have to see him do the same thing at a higher level before I can feel comfortable that he's another find. But so far so good.

I feel a little better about this deal than today. But a 19yo, 5' 9" catcher in his 2nd season in the FCL really didn't thrill me when I read it. But it does sound like he's actually a prospect, not just some random flier guy. I do wonder if they could have gotten an even better prospect if the Dobnak, cost cutting portion of the deal was removed.

I love the deal for Mettelus and keeping him in the fold. He's very underrated considering his role. Question to everyone: I would NEVER stand in the way of anyone advancing their career. And I believe KOC feels the same. But considering how the rest of the NFL views Flores...right or wrong...is it possible his career projection is best as a well paid coordinator? Once upon a time Belichek was a bad coach who went on to a HOF type of career. How much of Miami ownership might have affected Flores' ability to coach there? How much had his legal actions against the league affected his career. Is that fair? I'm SUPER HAPPY he's back for the Vikings in 2025. And not everyone is destined to be a Head Coach. But maybe he is? Maybe he's not? But he's one hell of a defensive genius! I'm NOT trying to create controversy. I'm just asking opinions here.

All teams in MLB know how good Ryan, Duran, and Jax are. All 3 of them are controlled through 2027 with limited financial deals. It's POSSIBLE their value goes down somewhat because lost the last 2 months of 2025 and the playoffs. It's also possible their value is as good, or even rises, as teams get ready to build their rosters for 2026. It's a chess game always. But if the Twins decide to move any of those arms, you'll still see a long line of bidders.

A good write up, Nick. Thanks for the work. I think you're selling Castro short in your OP. He might have the highest "bring back" as he offers so much to whatever team makes a move for him. While not having a great season, Paddack is throwing about average for a 5th SP this season, and he's going to be cheap at only about $2.5M still due. I can see someone needing some back of the rotation help to try to win every game possible down the finish, and he offers some help, potentially, in the pen come playoff time. What I would DO? Try for the best offers from all 6 of the impending FA, though I doubt France has little value/interest from anyone. Vazquez might be a cheap fit for Boston since even his poor offense is better than what they currently have. What would I NOT DO? With questions about who is going to own the team in a few months, and who might be running the FO, and a POSSIBLE increase in payroll from a new ownership, I would wait for the offseason to move any controllable player. Let's have the offseason to reflect on the direction of the team, a reflection on the entire system, including MILB, and then look for changes and opportunities. The value of Duran and Jax and others are not going to down. And there could be more opportunities for trades as more/all teams look to build their teams for 2026. What does this team need? (I'm just not going to get in to a debate about the FO and Rocco, etc). 1] The team NEEDS a shakeup. No more status quo. And they need to focus on DIRECTION, which I feel has been lost since the end of 2023. Hiw much of that is the FO miscalculation, or ownership handcuffing I don't know. (I do know I'd like to see the current FO have an offseason where the handcuffs are mostly off). 2] There are some quality players having bad seasons. There are some very good prospects actually really close to helping, but there have been disappointments and injuries that are clouding 2026 at the moment. Waiting a couple months gives more perspective, and more time for a better, deeper depth examination. Again, that doesn't mean changes aren't needed, and that you can just bet on everyone being healthy and suddenly improved and ready to go. It's more time to dig deeper. 3] What does the 2026 team seem to NEED based on 2025 and the loss of the impending FA? A] Unless there is a position change coming, they need a 1B who can produce AT LEAST league average results, if not better. The fact is, 1B just isn't the big power, high OPS position it used to be. That doesn't mean the team can't find room for HUGE improvement here compared to 2025 and most previous seasons. B] Another BAT. I'm not even talking an ALL STAR player. But a corner OF, or a DH, just a really solid, productive BAT. It's fine to be a believer in Wallner...as I am...or HOPE Rodriguez suddenly stays healthy and jumps up and grabs a job. But wish in 1 hand and c**p in the other and see which one gets filled first. What in the world would we possibly do if we suddenly had too many hitters available? (Massive sarcasm). C] They need a 4th OF with both Bader and Castro gone. Rodriguez and Gonzalez are not going to be 4th OF. (Gonzalez can't play CF to begin with). They still need another Taylor, Bader, or better versions of Lew Ford, or Jake Cave. D] They are going to need BP help with Coulombe gone and very possibly 1 of Jax or Duran. Unless they pull of a last minute, short extension for Coulombe I'd make him a priority re-sign as he's done very well as a Twin, but is also VERY GOOD in his 5-6th inning role. But the 2026 Twins need an even better option for the 7-8th innings. That also helps mitigate the loss of 1 of Jax or Duran. Even unknowing if they will have a job a few months from now, the FO philosophy of Falvey and company has always been about the health and the future of the team, never blowing things up. I expect that to continue. And 6 impending FA to possibly be traded AREN'T going to bring back TOP prospects. But what MIGHT they bring back for NOW, and 2026? A] Is there a decent 1B or 4th OF currently on a team needing Castro, Bader, Coulombe, or Paddack that is either blocked or somewhat superfluous? Is there someone sitting mostly on the bench or in AAA that needs to be freed for opportunity? THAT'S a target! B] Is there a AAA or AA arm that has suddenly lost luster and has slipped down a prospect list? Instead of being a top 7, he's now 12th? Maybe he's got 2 1/2 good pitches. Maybe he can't maintain velocity. Maybe he's OK twice through the rotation and gets destroyed the 3rd time. THAT'S who I'd be targeting as a potential arm in a trade right now. Bader, Castro, Coulombe, and Paddack offer at least SOME opportunity to make an addition or two that makes sense. The market will tell us. POTENTIALLY, the Twins might pick up 2 of the "what they need to add" for possible help now and 2026. Personally, I'd rather those options than A prospects who MIGHT turn out one day. The system is deep enough with prospects that we don't need more fliers. Unless the market is crazy poor...which I don't expect...it's up to the FO to TRY and get 1 or 2 of the options I've mentioned to potentially add to 2026.

Just my opinion, but I don't even consider trading Ryan at this point. And probably not in the near future. In fact, he might be the #1 priority for new ownership to extend. And I still say, for many reasons including a potential ownership and FO change, I'd hold off trading anybody controllable players until the offseason for a really close examination of what needs to change. Guys like Duran and Jax aren't going to lose value with 2 full years of control still left. Now, if the Dodgers, just for example, want to offer up Rushing and another top prospect for Jax or Duran, I'm going to listen hard. Even though you'll still need to find another #2 catcher for 2026, you MIGHT consider moving Jeffers...or him and someone added... to the Padres for the best return possible. Again, just an example. But I'd move the impending FA for the best returns I could get and wait for the offseason to make the BIG moves.

There could be additional additional still coming. And maybe someone will have more in depth reports on these guys. But now that all 21 draftees are signed and delivered, I did a little research on 5 kids the Twins have signed post draft as UDFA. Thought I would share what I've found. ADAM FALINSKI/ RHP/ Troy university: 6' 3" 221 lbs, almost 23yo.He began his college career at Eastern Michigan before transferring to Troy for 2025. And it was definitely his best season to date. His coach raves about him as a person and as a teammate. He appeared in 18G with 7 of those being starts. He produced a 5.83 ERA/ 46.1 IP/ 51 H allowed/ 23BB/ and 46 K. He would appear to have reliever written all over him. ERIC HAMMOND/ RHP/ Georgia: 6' 4" 190 lbs 23yo in November. He spent his first 2yrs at USC with limited results. While he started in 21 of 27 appearances, his ERA was pushing 7 both seasons with poor peripherals. However, his 1yr spent at Georgia saw a turnaround with an ERA of 4.15, but only 17.1 IP as a reliever only. He allowed 14 H/ 7 BB/ and had 23 K. I'm thinking late blooming reliever with room to grow and add velocity. IAN DOUGHERTY/ C/ Oklahoma State: 6' 2" 212 lbs almost 23yo. He played all 4yr at OK St and was almost exclusively a catcher. Not much of a bat, and not much power, hitting 10HR in 2024, 8 in 2025, but a career number of only 19 HR. Career quad slash of: .264/ .366/ .475/ .841. Now it does get a little more interesting. LUIS HERNANDEZ/ C-1B/ LSU-Puerto Rico: 6' 1" 190 lbs 23yo. Hernandez played his first 3yrs at the smaller school of Indiana State before transferring to LSU for the 2025 season. He played almost exclusively as a catcher his freshman season. He spent 2023 as the primary DH, and then moved to 1B in 2024. (I couldn't find if injury was part of the various moves). While he didn't perform poorly, he had a breakout at 1B in 2024 with 14 Dbls/ 23 HR/ and 76RBI and a quad slash of .359/ .421/ .644/ 1.114. He was amongst the top performers in the MVC which lead to his transfer to LSU, where he moved BACK to catcher and was their primary backstop this past season. And in about 1/3 less PA, he didn't perform poorly with 11 Dbls/ 1 Trpl/ 9 HR/ 33 RBI. His quad slash was .270/ .348/ .500/ .848. Not bad for a backstop in his first and only season for a powerhouse SEC program that had a phenomenal year. But is he really a catcher? Lastly: HARRY GENTH/ INF/ Division 3 Haverford College: 5' 8" 185 lbs almost 23yo. Yes, you read that right, he's from a D3 school. He's seen playing time at SS and 3B, but has primarily been a 2B. He put up solid quad line numbers all 4 yrs and improved said numbers all 4yrs. (A few, brief, games played in summer ball that were mediocre, and SSSS). But this past year he produced 15 Dbls/ 2 Trpls/ 23 HR/ 77 RBI with 31 successful SB out of 32 attempts! And get his senior quad slash line: .428/ .556/ 1.034/ 1.600! Those numbers aren't a mistake. Considering he was on a continuous upswing in production in college, i have to wonder why he didn't transfer to a larger school for his senior season? In short, and strictly my opinion, they signed a depth/organizational catcher and a couple arms that have at least some potential out of the pen. In particular, I'm somewhat intrigued by the tall and lanky Hammond from Georgia. How do you perform so poorly at USC, then teansfer to an SEC school and show so much improvement, even in SSS? Why did Hernandez...who also performed very well for a silver medal PR appearance in the under 23yo games...move off of catcher after his freshman season to DH, and then to 1B? WAS there an injury I couldn't find? And then the national champion LSU program moves him back to being their primary backstop? It will be really interesting to see if the Twins keep him at catcher, which I presume they will. Based on what he did at Indiana State...though a smaller school...it would seem there is SOME bat and power potential there for a move to 1B if catcher doesn't work out. It's a LONG WAY from D3 to MLB. But when a kid like Genth puts up video game numbers like that he's at least worth a look. All of these kids are 23yo, or close to being so. They all have obvious flaws in their abilities/production, SSS of production, or level of play. But a couple of them just might have some tools for the development staff to work with. Just wanted to share what I've found out so far about these UDFA post draft.

Unfortunately, this discussion is part of a bigger picture. That means I have to go off thread a bit. Pitching really isn't the issue for this team. It's the offense. The offense needs to be adjusted, tweaked, however you want to phrase it. Said changes would hopefully help add a little more speed and athleticism to the team. But one way to make changes and add would be the moving of Duran or Jax for a couple really good young players, hopefully ML ready or really close. But I'm still in favor of waiting for the offseason for major moves...unless blown away...when the Twins, and all teams, have more time to examine and reflect on their system and potential changes. I don't believe Jax or Duran will have less value in December than they do now. And right now, we don't even know who's going to own the team or be running things come the offseason. And while Stewart could be a really smart, and less expensive option for a team to acquire for pen help, if his age and injury factor are truly and issue, then how much could they really get for him? It would be one thing if he was an expiring FA, but he's not. He says his arm feels better than it has in years. He's throwing well. He's inexpensive. He's under control. Sounds like the kind of arm the Twins should have gone out and found the past couple of years. So why move him unless someone overpays for him? ESPECIALLY if you MIGHT trade one of Jax or Duran. I'd be happy to move Coulombe for someone decent. And I'd make him an inexpensive priority to re-sign for 2026 even at his age. He's doing phenomenal in his current role. (I'd still like to find an even better #1 LHRP additionally.). But if they could re-sign him and just keep him, I'd be OK with that too. A 1yr at $3.5M? Or maybe $4M for 2026 and a $2 or $2.5M team option for 2027 where you've front loaded the deal? Go ahead and move all the impending FA for the best returns you can find. Hopefully we get a couple ML ready or nearly ready options. But Stewart probably has more value for the Twins...in 2026 at least....than anyone he'd bring back. And unless blown away, keep the controllable players until this offseason for further trade discussions and possible package deals.

Am I mistaken as I've missed a few games. But isn't this the FIRST appearance of the old "M" logo hats? My dad and I were so excited to see them! I've learned to not hate the "M Star" cap, and almost like it. And nothing will ever replace the traditional "TC" cap logo. But that old school "M" with a swipe underscore is a look that NEVER should have gone away!

THIS is what I've been talking about! Sorry if I'm a little excited about Zebby tonight. But I've been saying for a few weeks now that when the baseball gods decide that 2 or your stalwart 3 SP have to succumb to injuries, what happens? In a disappointing season there are still things you can cling to. If you've been following daily, then you know Matthews, Festa, and SWR haven't exactly been stalwarts of consistency. But even when they've had less than ideal games...maybe allowing 3 runs in the 1st...they settle down and pitched well afterward. They've all 3 flashed what they MIGHT be in the future. Ideally, all 3 would rotate through the last couple of spots and we'd still have Lopez and Ober 100% and doing their normal thing. But I really don't know who decided that talented young arms should come up and just DOMINATE initially. Very few SP dominate from day one. Baseball is a hard game. I take decent/solid results and enjoy the development, and revel in great games like this. The offense is still a mixed and inconsistent mess. And the Nats aren't exactly a great team. But Matthews still threw a hell of a great game. TOMORROW is built by TODAY'S like this.

Just to be clear, I'm not opposed to trading one of Jax or Duran and getting a quality return, if it's there. They are asking for a pair of top 100 prospects since they are very, very good and each controllable for 2 + years at this point. I don't believe they will get that. But it's a place to start for an ask. What the Twins DON'T need is a collection of A level prospects, no matter where they rank on anyone's list. This team is not poised for a complete rebuild,,,which seldom works out the way as hoped or expected...it just needs a retooling. The current FO and coaching staff and scouts, and depth in the system, would seem to indicate replace one of Duran or Jax wouldn't be insurmountable. Without adding any FA, or trade acquisitions, there remains the possibility of converting one of several options to the pen. Even if it's "old school" get your feet wet and you can then can convert back being a starter. But it better be a collection of 2 or 3 players ready to contribute relatively soon or you just cut off the legs of your team's immediate future; the pitching staff. They ABSOLUTELY have to move the impending FA wherever possible, for what they can get. Perhaps I'm being naive, but Castro and Bader have some pretty good value for a team in the hunt looking for a boost. I think Coulombe is slightly behind those 2 but not by much. How many playoff teams couldn't use a proven LHRP who gets batters out from both sides in the middle innings? Paddack has the least total value, IMO, but he could fill a #4-5 slot for a team hurting in those areas looking to win every game they can. Again, how much value comes back is TBD. It's POSSIBLE a lower level prospect could be thrown in to make the return better. Can the FO negotiate deals that can bring in a blocked 1B or 4th OF type? Can they bring in an arm that has lost luster as a SP option from a team that could be a potential pen option going forward? That's what the need to TRY for. I think Falvey is a man of integrity who would never look to hurt the Twins future. Not only is that not his style, but he's still playing Twins overlord for his career, with or without being a Twins employee. But unless overwhelmed by a deal tomorrow, I still maintain the best move is to wait for the offseason to move controllable players. This allows the Twins to take a deeper dive in to what they have, what they need, and what's coming up. Some would say teams are more desperate to overpay for a RP NOW. But 2 years of control of Duran and Jax...if not others...this offseason really shouldn't lower their value. Especially if you consider more teams being in the mix to add to build for 2026. Of course, there's also the possibility of new ownership MAYBE offering extensions here and there. But that's a long range bet I'm not willing to take TODAY. I just think the smart play is to concentrate on what you can get for the expiring FA, and hold back for the long view in the offseason unless blown away by an offer.

I watched the end of the game and turned away. I was so disgusted when I saw an UGLY obvious strike 3 call from the umps on Betts I left. The video shows him a good foot or foot and a half beyond the plate. I mean, it's so obvious anyone with decent eyesight and integrity would have called it a strike. Just ridiculous!

Always surprises me when a traded for arm suddenly explodes. Absolutely NOT for the Twins. Keep rolling with the young arms. How do they ever get ready if not given the opportunity? Hopefully, Festa is back soon.

I still think it's about making adjustments. He says he ran out of gas to end 2024 and has been struggling with a new approach to compensate for the changes in his body. (Reference my previous post). This kid has been through hell when you look at injuries and rehab. All he wants to do is play ball. But when you've been through what he's gone through, you either give up, or you keep working. I hurt my knee a decade ago plus. Im OK and compensate here and there. Thankfully I never injured it twice. Can you imagine doing the same thing twice as an elite athlete? Again, I think this is about him making adjustments to his base and timing. How good/great he might be going forward is TBD. But right NOW, it's about adjustments made in approach and timing.

I LOVE so much of what our current FO has done. They've brought in analytics that didn't exist previously. They've made catching coaching so much of a priority that they lost Swanson to the Yankees as a coach. (There's a difference between catching and being able to hit out of a paper bag. And that's an entirely different discussion). They've done a hell of a good job taking arms and adding velocity and adding/deleting pitches to create some very good prospects. There have been past Twins players, most notably Trevor Plouffe, who have applauded a new approach with hitters not being pigeon holed with too many old school approaches, but treated as individuals with certain talents. But SOMETHING is missing with MILB and/or MLB instruction. Part of that, IMO, is an IDENTITY of what the Twins are supposed to be as an offensive team. OBP and POWER ALWAYS lead to production and a productive offense. Whether you believe in modern day analytics or not, the numbers are there. All you have to do is look them up and grudgingly accept them. That DOESN'T MEAN you want a team filled by Gallo types! And that doesn't mean there isn't room for speed, athleticism and defense, something the current Twins team is lacking. FWIW, when the Twins were playing the power game, as iconsistent as they may have been, they were amongst the top 5-10 consistently in total runs scored. ALMOST as if they were listening to a certain segment of TD. LOL, they suddenly K'd far less, and the runs started to disappear. Again, FWIW, and the players might be different, but the Twins AREN'T devoid of talent themselves, the Jay's are #1 in MLB offensive production with the FORMER Twins hitting coach and the Twins rank 21. Now, I'm not hating on Borgschulte who had a good reputation for the Saints and did some good things initially with the Orioles. But depending on who's stats you want to look at, the Twins were around 11-12 in 2024. And in 2023 they were top 5. That's a HUGE difference from 21 to borderline top 10, and top 5 just 2yrs ago. So is that the players or the coaches or the FO? Yes, a COMPLETE lineup gives you a combination of a handful of guys who can run, you have a lineup that has a decent OB%, and you have a collection of XB power including a couple BIG BOPPERS. But that's the IDEAL fantasy console game you strive for best you can. If nobody's noticed, the Twins still draft for power, as you should, but have also been looking for better contact bats and better athletes mixed in. I really didn't mean to go on a tangent here, but I had to respond to several responses. #1] Let Lee play daily. He's shown flashes. Let him figure it out! Unless the Twins hitting instructors are incompetent, he's got the mental ability and experience to grow. What does he possibly have to prove at AAA at this point. His glove? His glove is excellent. He's made rookie mistakes while feeling some pressure. #2] The FO...or the next FO...needs to re-examine some of what's being taught. They are supposedly treating each hitter as an individual? Sounds great! But have too many prospects tanked because they just didn't have the "it" factor? Or are we missing something in our development process? #3] PICK A PROCESS. I can clearly see from the last few drafts that you are trying to change the approach. You still need POWER, which hasn't been ignored. But you're also drafting more speed and athleticism and looking at basic contact/hitting approach at the same time. Keaschall ending up with a broken arm and Rodriguez continuing to be injured messes with your plans no doubt. But don't stop with a PROCESS/APPROACH that makes sense. Of course, that all goes out the window, potentially, when the team sells and whatever the new owners decide to do. But it doesn't escape the fact that the FO either hasn't found a foundation to stand on, or hasn't had the players to actually do what they want to do offensively. Or that they have reacted too late, or poorly. *Taylor and Bader brought some of what this team needs. But they were both more Buxton insurance initially. Lee should play daily because IDK what defensive metrics say or a few bad games, I've seen him play. His glove and instincts in the field work. Let's forgive a relative rookie figuring it out. And how about less than 500 AB for a relative rookie trying to figure it out batting wise. I DO THINK the current FO has to answer some questions. THEY pick the MILB coaching staffs. THEY have at least partial control of the ML coaching staff. It's not all on Rocco. Its on the player, Lee in this case. But it's also on the coaches to bring out the best in a player.

When he's ready, he will be. Rocco takes a long view, which I don't disagree with. He takes time to demote, and takes time to promote. It's ridiculous to realize that at times, someone like France has been the best option for a top spot in the lineup. But when 3 of your 4 best players are all struggling, that's the current hand you are dealt. And that's what makes this whole season so damn frustrating! Imagine Lewis. Correa, and Wallner NOT having career seasons, just solid, average years based on projections and past production. Now add Buxton to the mix with a solid Larnach and Jeffers. Then mix in Castro, the solid Larnach, and the unexpected contributions from Bader, France, and Clemens. Even with injuries we've had to deal with, that lineup, even with some injury issues to the staff, has this team firmly planted in a WC spot, even if they can't catch Detroit. Again, that's what's so frustrating about this season!

Falvey really hasn't changed his stance. He's always been clear that "you take the call". That being said, a resounding NO from me on this package. It would have to be bigger/better to move him. #1] Ryan has emerged as a solid #1 starter. At worst he's a great #2 who often throws like a #1. He, Lopez, and Ober form a really good 1-3 for 2026 as well. After that, it's open auditions for the young arms for the final 2 spots. No Ryan means you just short changed your entire rotation over night 2] IF you move Ryan, or any of the top 3, you do it in the offseason where the Twins, and everyone else, are taking time to build for 2026. With 2yrs of control for all 3 of them, their value is not going to go down. It also provides the rest of the season to roll through Matthews, Festa, and SWR to see how much they grow, as well as more time for some MILB arms to continue to grow and develop. The "view" of ALL the young arms is different come the offseason. 3] The Twins problem is not the rotation, or the pen, it's the offense. There's a lot of better, more athletic talent position player wise really close. And again, the pitching isn't the problem. 4] How can we possibly know at this point if the proposed new ownership group won't go ahead and sign Ryan to an extension? I WOULD trade the impending FA for the very best deals I can find. I'd be targeting young/young-ish 4th OF and 1B that might currently be blocked from a regular gig. And I'd be targeting talented arms that have lost a little shine to their prospect status that might be great fits as pen conversions. You won't get it all, but that's what I'd be targeting. There's been speculation about Duran or Jax as pen options to trade. But again, like Ryan, these aren't rental arms due for some A ball return flier. These are TOP arms with 2yrs of control. And even a quality pen arm is generally easier to replace than a top of the rotation SP. So I'd still say, unless blown away, I'd concentrate on the impending FA and hold on to everyone else until the offseason. I'd make Coulombe a priority re-sign in the offseason to play the same role in 2026 as he has now, even at age 35. And I'd make a LHRP who can be more of a 7-8 inning arm a priority. After that, it's all about tweaking the position roster/lineup. How fast/hard do we/can we push and count on Keaschall, Rodriguez, Culpepper, and eventually Jenkins? Is there any chance Schobel gets healthy and finishes his AAA strong enough, or Eeles...still working his way back from his cartilage surgery...can possibly contribute in 2026? What about Gonzalez continuing to rake and getting AAA time to help prepare himself for next year as well? IF the best way to tweak the existing roster for 2026 is to move someone in the offseason, that makes way more sense to me. You can have a larger, wide screen shot of your entire system at that point. Again, I rather like the way the Brewers aren't afraid to take some chances on players. But the pitching isn't the problem. Lewis, Correa, and Wallner getting back to their "normal" selves is part of the answer. Lee further developing is part of the answer. Adding more overall athleticism to the roster is the next step. Finding a 1B SOMEWHERE, even internally, who can provide daily production is yet another part of the equation. Trade the impending FA for best value, and make some smart targets/decisions there. Pick up the phone because you just never known if you're blown away by someone. But Ryan is borderline untouchable to me at this point.

I don't disagree with the OP. But it's my understanding that Royce recently "gave in" and stated that the injuries have taken a toll on his body. And that's not hard to dismiss when you consider 2 separate knee injuries and a collection of lower body muscle pulls and the such. Additionally, through his rehabs and weight training, and general physical growth, he's a larger, stronger human being than he was 3 or 4 years ago. So while I don't know if he's changed his approach, or tweaked his load differently, but he has to have altered something in order to compensate. I think we're starting to see the fruition of those changes...small as they may be...along with better timing and yes, more confidence. How good he can or will be as a hitter is still TBD. He may yet be a .290-.300 hitter with 30HR power and an .840 OPS. Or he might "only" be a .270-.280 hitter with 25HR and a .780 OPS. But as young as he is, as good of an overall athlete that he is, as hard or a worker as he is, I've always felt he would get back on the right side of things eventually. Who he is today might not be who he is next season. But I'm still betting he's going to be a really fine ML player, and big part of the Twins for the next few years, even if it turns out he's not going to be Superman.

Camargo is having, or has had, TJ surgery. He's out for the rest of this season and all or most of 2026. While a DFA might sound a little cold, he's probably not playing until 2027. Jeffers is going on 3 day paternity leave any moment now. Gasper is with the team now on the taxi squad for when that happens. St Paul ia down a catcher, that's why they picked one up. Fedko's AVG (.261) is nothing special, but his OB and SLG % are quite good. He's amongst the league leaders in all categories. You can't ignore that, or his 20/20 season. Get him up to AAA and see if you might have a quality platoon or 4th OF. He's almost 26yo and there's nobody blocking him at St Paul. I keep getting this feeling that Darren Bowen is meant for the.pen and might climb quickly if that were to happen.

The Twins have 3 guys in the rotation currently that are "rookies" or 2nd year arms. A couple of them are going to have to throw back to back. While I don't necessarily agree with Rocco's approach in Monday's game, I do think he was trying to squeeze out that extra inning in game 1...already behind...with 2 more games to go. I think, generally, you play game by game, and try to win TODAY, and worry about tomorrow when it gets here. But I think it's obvious what Rocco was trying to do. I just don't know if it was the right choice or not.

If we're talking overall talent, upside, and ceiling, I'd have to put Winokur in the top 10. Really happy to see this huge rebound from Gonzalez. But with limited defense and power at this point, I'd place Winokur before him. Again, playing the "upside" game. (I think more power will come for GG, just don't know how much). It's a pretty exciting list, IMO. And it becomes even more exciting if Rodriguez gets healthy and realizes his potential. I think Houston has some solid upside. He's not a small guy at 6' 3" and 200lbs, so his developing a little more pop last season, or going forward, shouldn't be too surprising. He seems to have a solid approach that would indicate he'll be at least a decent hitter. Combined with his glove, that makes him a pretty solid prospect, if not a great one. Culpepper can play 3 spots depending on roster construction. Keaschall could find a single spot, or play up to 4. There's some good stuff here.